It turns out there is such a thing as too much cheese…
Video marketers…have you ever gotten that look? You know, that pensive stare when a friend or colleague is attempting to craft constructive feedback about your video, but you can totally tell they would rather be mauled by wild chimpanzees than have to share their honest opinion?
Sorry to break it to you, but if this sounds familiar — your videos probably suck. And that’s bad. Unless it’s Super Bowl Sunday, people aren’t exactly signing up to watch commercials. The idea of sitting through a marketing video or promotional snippet makes even us folks in the business do a figurative eye roll sometimes. If the aesthetics, quality, and content don't captivate your audience, and the viewer doesn’t walk away from your video feeling entertained or informed… then what’s the point?
Here are some of the reasons your videos suck:
TOO HEAVY ON THE HAM…
Your star is putting so much cheese into his performance, your video could be served as dessert in France. A bad actor can really distract from the message, mainly because you can’t get over the second-hand embarrassment welling up inside of you while watching the cringe-inducing catastrophe unfold on screen. Don’t get me wrong. Actors can be amateurs, but there must be something there. The ability to deliver lines, good timing, and sincerity will go a long way. If you can’t find these traits in an amateur, it might be worth shelling out some extra scratch for a pro. Maybe let your friend’s brother help with the set next time instead of standing in the spotlight.
YOU’RE NO Charlie CHAPLIN…
LOL! You tripped and fell! I’m dying! So hilarious and creative! That wasn’t on purpose? Stop… Most creative types have the ability to suspend reality for the sake of art, but expecting your audience to pretend like that ‘silly mishap’ or ‘perfectly timed head-turn wasn't staged is just insulting. Keep the choreography and dialogue natural. If you must ask your actors to do something that feels or looks unnatural, have them practice before getting in front of the camera…a lot. The same goes for the script. Make sure you use dialogue that is conversational, relatable, and (obviously) gets your point across. Use phrasing that entices the viewer but can be easily digested and, better yet — remembered. Steer clear of judgmental or biased messages as those will immediately narrow your prospective audience unless that's the intention. As a general rule of thumb, leave the singing and dancing to the professionals.
YOU’RE DRUNK.
Ever look back at a note you left yourself and think, what was I on? If a promotional video watches like a random assortment of ideas, you will lose the audience in Wonderland. Establish a topic, be concise, and give your video messaging some structure. Avoid the confusion that befalls the ramblings of a marketing group with “too many cooks in the kitchen.” Focus on a concept and stick to it!
A LITTLE NIP & TUCK NEVER HURTS…
You can have all of the right components to make your video, but you can end up with a real flop if you ignore important editing tools. Remember timing in regards to how and when the message is conveyed as well as the video’s run time. Skip those long intros and transitions backed by some keyboard-generated muzak. The viewers will appreciate a pithy clip over an overindulged saga.
Whether you’re marketing or educating, producing a well-made video will help to engage, motivate, and excite your audiences.
PARTNER WITH THE BEST.
Tattoo Content Studio knows video. We don’t just make great videos; we collaborate with our partners on the best strategy for their brand. Contact us today and make your videos not suck.
Tattoo Content Studio | 704 Morris Street, Charlotte, NC 28208 | 704.900.7150
Email contentstudio@tattooprojects.com or click here to schedule a call.
